Bengals' latest 'NASCAR' package should give NFL fits in 2018

The Cincinnati Bengals have assembled one of the NFL’s nastiest pass-rushing units and have placed new defensive coordinator Teryl Austin in charge of running it.

Led by Geno Atkins and Carlos Dunlap, opposing offenses are going to have some problems in normal situations, as usual. But in passing scenarios, Austin’s “NASCAR” package looks like it could be one of the NFL’s best.

ESPN’s Katherine Terrell detailed the possible lineup while going over the slight adjustments Austin has to make after coming over from Detroit:

“What the Bengals call their “NASCAR” package (likely a combination of Geno Atkins, Dunlap, Carl Lawson and Jordan Willis), might have been called something else in Detroit.”

It’s an interesting note, not only because the package is so talented, but because it features younger names like Carl Lawson and Jordan Willis.

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Keep in mind this doesn’t even mention veteran Michael Johson, who looked good last year kicking inside as a rusher. There’s also popular rookie Sam Hubbard to consider.

Austin clearly has one of the league’s better pass-rushing situations on his hands with the Bengals. His ability to unlock the potential while starting to lean on younger players could propel the team back into playoff contention, just as the depth of the line lifted the team to consistent playoff berths in the past.

If the offical name of the package starts making the rounds, the Bengals’ “NASCAR” front is going to get popular in a hurry.